The 30,000 Dollar Bequest and Other Stories eBook

When Elfonzo read the above letter, he became so much
depressed in spirits that many of his friends thought
it advisable to use other means to bring about the
happy union. “Strange,” said he,
“that the contents of this diminutive letter
should cause me to have such depressed feelings; but
there is a nobler theme than this. I know not
why my militarytitle is not as great as
that of squireValeer. For my life
I cannot see that my ancestors are inferior to those
who are so bitterly opposed to my marriage with Ambulinia.
I know I have seen huge mountains before me, yet,
when I think that I know gentlemen will insult me
upon this delicate matter, should I become angry at
fools and babblers, who pride themselves in their impudence
and ignorance? No. My equals! I know
not where to find them. My inferiors! I
think it beneath me; and my superiors! I think
it presumption; therefore, if this youthful heart is
protected by any of the divine rights, I never will
betray my trust.”

He was aware that Ambulinia had a confidence that
was, indeed, as firm and as resolute as she was beautiful
and interesting. He hastened to the cottage of
Louisa, who received him in her usual mode of pleasantness,
and informed him that Ambulinia had just that moment
left. “Is it possible?” said Elfonzo.
“Oh, murdered hours! Why did she not remain
and be the guardian of my secrets? But hasten
and tell me how she has stood this trying scene, and
what are her future determinations.” “You
know,” said Louisa, “Major Elfonzo, that
you have Ambulinia’s first love, which is of
no small consequence. She came here about twilight,
and shed many precious tears in consequence of her
own fate with yours. We walked silently in yon
little valley you see, where we spent a momentary
repose. She seemed to be quite as determined
as ever, and before we left that beautiful spot she
offered up a prayer to Heaven for thee.”
“I will see her then,” replied Elfonzo,
“though legions of enemies may oppose.
She is mine by foreordination —­she is mine
by prophesy—­she is mine by her own free
will, and I will rescue her from the hands of her
oppressors. Will you not, Miss Louisa, assist
me in my capture?”

“I will certainly, by the aid of Divine Providence,”
answered Louisa, “endeavor to break those slavish
chains that bind the richest of prizes; though allow
me, Major, to entreat you to use no harsh means on
this important occasion; take a decided stand, and
write freely to Ambulinia upon this subject, and I
will see that no intervening cause hinders its passage
to her. God alone will save a mourning people.
Now is the day and now is the hour to obey a command
of such valuable worth.” The Major felt
himself grow stronger after this short interview with
Louisa. He felt as if he could whip his weight
in wildcats —­he knew he was master of his
own feelings, and could now write a letter that would
bring this litigation to anissue.